There is a superpower understood and held dear by performers in every field and endeavor. One act that even the most accomplished performers go out of their way to do prior to competing on a large stage.
This secret ingredient gives them a boost of confidence, relaxes their state of mind, reminds them of what is most important, and allows them to put the performance in perspective. Perhaps nothing is more important than deploying this superpower prior to displaying one’s skills when the stakes are high.
You might be surprised by how many world-class composers, presenters, dancers, athletes, rock climbers, coaches, and leaders don’t feel comfortable setting foot on any stage without doing this.
They speak with the people who are closest to them in the world and confirm how much they matter to them just prior to performance.
Over time, the families, friends, colleagues, coaches, leaders, and partners come to recognize the important role they play and do their part. They often go to great lengths to reach performers and tell them how much they care about them before they perform.
For some performers, this is a ritual that takes place at a precise time before they perform. For others, the confirmation happens more spontaneously. But it always happens.
Performers know that whatever occurs, the caring, warmth, and connection others share with them will not diminish or change because of the outcome. This gives them a mental and emotional foundation from which they can fly and perform at their best.
This routine is not unknown to most performers before they perform at a special venue or ply their trade in front of a larger-than-typical audience. But it normally happens spontaneously or by chance, rather than by design. The benefits of doing this before every critical performance are too great to leave this to chance.
Consider incorporating this best practice before your next weighty performance. Tell others what you are doing and why. They will be delighted to oblige. Then do it before every performance and see what it does to relax, focus, and prepare the mind for greatness. No one is great alone. Confirm that with those who matter.
